Ming Zhang, a beloved husband, revered father, esteemed professional, and cherished friend embarked on his final journey and passed away on March 31st, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, accomplishment, compassion, memories, and love.

Born on May 11, 1957, in Shanghai, China, Ming's early years were marked by a profound commitment to excellence and achievement. His illustrious career began after earning his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Urban Planning from Tongji University in Shanghai in 1983 and 1986, respectively. Starting in the Shanghai Urban Planning and Design Institute, he quickly rose through the ranks from Senior Planner to Deputy Chief Planner, earning recognition for his groundbreaking work on high-profile projects in Shanghai. His contributions were celebrated with prestigious awards, including first-place winner of the 1986 National Annual Planning and Architecture Award and the 1987 National Annual Science and Technology Progress Award. He rapidly rose to Deputy Director of the Shanghai Pudong New Area Development Office after being hand-selected by the then Mayor (later became the Premier of China) in 1990.

In 1992, Ming embarked on a new chapter in his life, immigrating to the United States to follow his heart and pursue a future filled with more love and opportunity. He quickly established himself as a respected professional in his field after receiving his second Master's degree in City & Regional Planning and third Master's degree in Civil Engineering in 1996 from The Ohio State University. His tenure in the U.S. saw him rise from an independent contractor for the OSU Center for Mapping in 1994, to a GIS Coordinator for the Bennett & Williams Environmental Consultants INC in 1996, to his eventual role as Director of the GIS and Planning Department of Bennett & Williams in 2002, where his expertise was instrumental in shaping infrastructure and improving lives.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Ming found joy in a myriad of interests and hobbies. His talents extended beyond the realm of urban planning, as he also found joy in home renovation projects, from one of his first projects of building a playset in the backyard for his children, to remodeling every room in the home, to his most recent project of designing and building a new backyard deck. As a passionate photographer, his lens captured the beauty of moments shared with family and friends, adorning the walls of his home with pictures of cherished memories that would be treasured for a lifetime. His skillful hands also brought delight to his family by spending time in the kitchen crafting delicious meals and snacks. His family will always remember Ming's homemade traditional Shanghai-style lobster stir-fried noodles and scallion pancake.

Ming possessed a wealth of admirable qualities that enriched the lives of those around him. He stood as an active leader and pillar of his community. As a Church Deacon for the Columbus Chinese Christian Church for 6 years, he guided his fellow congregants, offering wisdom, support, compassion, and a helping hand. He also generously opened his home to international students, fostering cross-cultural understanding and friendship. Beyond his community involvement, Ming was also a romantic, with his love for music, art, and history. He possessed an undeniable charm and a romantic spirit that effortlessly captivated the heart of his college sweetheart, whom he married in 1986 and adoringly whisked away into a lifelong love story. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him on a lifelong journey of discovery, approached with an open heart and an open mind. Ming's magnetic personality and passion for life were contagious; he had no trouble making many friends with his vibrant spirit. Even in the face of adversity, Ming demonstrated unwavering strength and resilience throughout his 12-year battle with pancreatic cancer, inspiring all who knew him with his remarkable courage.

Above all else, Ming's greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Wenqin Chen, and a loving father to his son Eddie Zhang and daughter Alaina Zhang. No doubt his greatest achievement was raising his son and daughter to be successful in their own careers and lives. His unwavering love and support were the foundation upon which his family thrived. His legacy of kindness, integrity, and resilience will endure for generations to come.

Ming will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his warmth, wisdom, and strength. Please join us in bidding farewell to Ming Zhang from 3pm to 6pm on Saturday April 6th, 2024 at O.R. Woodyard Co., 2990 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220 for his funeral viewing and at 2pm to 4pm on Sunday April 7th, 2024 at the Columbus Chinese Christian Church at 4141 Maize Rd, Columbus, OH 43224 for his memorial service.